Ms. Ailla Mae Prince

Ailla Mae Reid Prince, daughter of the late Robert Merchant and Susie Mae (Caldwell) Merchant, was born on July 22, 1941, in Manning, South Carolina. She peacefully transitioned from this life on May 9, 2025, after a lengthy illness. From an early age, Ailla was drawn to the calling of service. She pursued a career in healthcare, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification and dedicating herself to the care and comfort of others. She later married Staff Sergeant Leroy Reid Jr., and together they were blessed with four children: Leroy, Kelvin, Timothy, and Catherine. Their time together was tragically shortened when SSG Reid gave his life in service during the Vietnam War in 1971. In the face of profound loss, Ailla courageously relocated her young family to Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she committed herself fully to raising her children and nurturing her faith. Her home echoed with songs of praise and the unwavering love of a devoted mother. To ensure her relationship with Christ was a cornerstone of her life, she joined United Pentecostal Church. A woman of many talents and an enduring spirit, Ailla continued to grow. In the late 1970s to early 1980s, she earned a degree in cosmetology—bringing beauty and confidence to those around her through her gifted hands and kind heart. She later partnered with her dear friend and sister in Christ, Dora, to create, A/R a full service wedding and catering business, where her creativity and service formed a passion project turned labor of love that brought joy to many. In 1985, Ailla found love again and married Floyd Prince. Their bond was rooted in faith, joy, and deep companionship. Together, they became pillars of their church and community, living out their beliefs through service and steadfast love. Their marriage spanned three decades, until Floyd’s passing in 2015 following a prolonged illness. Ailla’s life was a testament to faith, resilience, and compassion. She touched countless lives with her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering belief in God’s love. She leaves to cherish her memory: her treasured sisters May, Lucille, Sarah, Virginia, and Eleanor. Her beloved sons Leroy (Sheila), Kelvin (Ann), and Timothy (Sylvia) and adoring stepsons Floyd and Ronnie. Ailla’s legacy lives on through her grandchildren—Edmond (La Donness), Sheena, Aja, Trinity, Byron, Joshua, Morris, Devon, Isiah, Kenya, Cheyenne, Daniel, Matthew, and Isaac—and great-grandchildren Tristan, Saniya, Damasjai, Kamari, Miracle, Khamani, and Jadarren. Though she is no longer with us in body, Ailla’s enduring spirit, generous heart, and legacy of love and service will forever inspire all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Ms. Ailla Mae Prince

July 22, 1941 - May 9, 2025